Recall Notice for 2013 BMW R1200GS

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The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued a recall notice for a number of 2013 BMW R1200GS motorcycles built from November 2012 through August 2013. According to the notice, “Pressure inside the transmission may cause the transmission output seal to be pushed out of place.” There are potentially 1420 units affected by this issue.

In the Defect Notice submitted by BMW of North America, “As a result of gear changing or load reversals, pressure peaks within the gearbox can occur. Due to production variance such as surface finish of the housing and the position of the sealing ring, the ring could be pushed out from its seated position. If this were to happen, oil could leak from the gearbox and onto the rear tire, which could increase the risk of a crash.”

On January 24, 2013 BMW issued a world-wide recall for the issue, but received a report that all affected models in the United States were in control of BMW and had been repaired prior to release to dealers. The fix included adding an oil restrictor to reduce pressure at the gearbox output, and if necessary the sealing ring was replaced.

A non-US field report was received on September 26, 2013 that indicated a leaking geabox and extruded seal ring. After an investigation it was found that the motorcycle in question had also been fitted with the new oil restrictor, prompting further inquiry.

While testing continued BMW received report of an accident, without injury, from a rider in Italy and 19 additional reports that cited a leaking gearbox and extruded seal ring. By April 9, 2014 it was determined that the oil restrictor was “not sufficiently adequate to prevent the gearbox sealing ring from being pushed out.” The following day BMW issued a voluntary recall.

BMW dealers will fit a bracket to ensure the seal is not pushed out to all affected units, free of charge. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417 for more information. They may also call the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 or go to www.safecar.gov. The NHTSA’s campaign ID number is 14V211000.